BookTok has officially taken over Hollywood!!! If you have scrolled through social media lately, you have likely noticed that the biggest blockbusters are not just comic book movies anymore. They are paperback adaptations.
There is something undeniably magical about seeing your favorite literary couples come to life. Whether it is the rain-soaked agony of The Notebook or the fake dating hijinks of To All the Boys, these films prove that the only thing better than reading about love is watching it unfold in 4K.
To celebrate the genre’s massive resurgence, we have curated the definitive list of the top 10 romantic movies inspired by books. Grab your tissues and your popcorn because these stories are guaranteed to wreck you in the best way possible.
It Ends With US (2024)
The Book: It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
It was the most talked-about movie of 2024 and for good reason. Blake Lively stars as Lily Bloom in this adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s TikTok sensation, which navigates the complex and heartbreaking reality of domestic abuse disguised as romance. While the press tour drama may have stolen some headlines, the movie itself became a streaming juggernaut that is still sitting in the Prime Video Top 10 as of January 2026.
What makes this adaptation stand out is its refusal to shy away from the darker themes of the source material. The chemistry between Lively and Brandon Sklenar (who plays Atlas Corrigan) provides the hope necessary to balance the film’s heavier moments. It is a tough watch, but a necessary one that proves the romance genre can tackle serious issues without losing its cinematic gloss. The “better in Boston” magnet scene alone is enough to justify a rewatch this weekend.
Red, White & Royal Blue (2023)
The Book: Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
If you need a palate cleanser, this is it. The story of Alex Claremont Diaz, the First Son of the United States, falling for Prince Henry of Britain is pure serotonin. Taylor Zakhar Perez and Nicholas Galitzine have chemistry that practically melts the screen, transforming a high-concept political rom-com into something genuinely tender and steamy.
The best part is that the story is far from over. As of this week, cameras are officially rolling on the sequel, Red, White & Royal Wedding. The new film promises to explore the next chapter of Alex and Henry’s relationship, making now the perfect time to rewatch the original. You need to be fresh on all the “cakegate” drama and the Cornetto scene before the sequel drops on Prime Video.
The Notebook (2004)
The Book: The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks
You cannot make this list without the grandfather of modern tearjerkers. Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams turned Nicholas Sparks’ novel into the gold standard for on-screen romance. From the Ferris wheel stunt to the letter that was never delivered, this movie defined a generation’s expectations of love.
Behind the scenes, the actors famously did not get along during filming, which only makes their on-screen fire more impressive. Their eventual real-life romance and that iconic MTV Movie Award kiss cemented the film’s legacy. It remains the ultimate “ugly cry” movie night pick more than 20 years later, and the ending still hits just as hard as it did in 2004.
Pride & Prejudice (2005)
The Book: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
There are many adaptations of Jane Austen’s masterpiece, but Joe Wright’s 2005 version reigns supreme for one reason. The tension. Keira Knightley plays a fierce and intelligent Elizabeth Bennet, but Matthew Macfadyen’s Mr. Darcy is a revelation of repressed yearning.
The scene where he helps her into the carriage and then flexes his hand is widely considered one of the most romantic moments in cinema history, and not a single word is spoken. That specific gesture was improvised by Macfadyen on the day of filming, and it perfectly captures the agonizing desire of the Regency era. If you want a masterclass in “show, don’t tell” filmmaking, just watch that hand flex on a loop.
Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
The Book: Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
This adaptation did more than just break box office records. It revived the studio romantic comedy. Constance Wu and Henry Golding are effortlessly charming, but the real love story here is the visual splendor of Singapore and the intricate family dynamics.
The wedding scene where the bride walks down a flooded aisle while Kina Grannis sings “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a cinematic masterpiece. The crew reportedly had only 36 hours to transform the historic chapel into a blooming meadow, but the result is breathtaking. It is a visual feast that gives you chills every time you watch it.
Call Me by Your Name (2017)
The Book: Call Me by Your Name by André Aciman
Timothée Chalamet became a global superstar thanks to this sensory adaptation. The film captures the languid heat of an Italian summer and the intense, intoxicating rush of first love. It feels less like a movie and more like a memory you are living through.
The soundtrack, featuring original songs by Sufjan Stevens, does much of the heavy lifting. The song “Mystery of Love” perfectly encapsulates the fleeting nature of Elio and Oliver’s relationship. The final shot of Elio staring into the fireplace while the credits roll is a masterclass in acting that stays with you long after the screen goes black.
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)
The Book: To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han
Netflix struck gold with this adaptation. Lana Condor and Noah Centineo revitalized the teen romantic comedy genre by grounding it in genuine charisma. It is sweet and smart and gave us Peter Kavinsky, which is a gift we can never repay. It also proved that streaming services could produce quality romantic comedies that rival theatrical releases.
Atonement (2007)
The Book: Atonement by Ian McEwan
This is not a feel-good movie, but it is a romantic masterpiece. Keira Knightley and James McAvoy play lovers torn apart by a lie in this sweeping war drama. The green dress Knightley wears is iconic, but it is the library scene that earns it a spot on this list. Just be prepared to be emotionally compromised by the ending.
Me Before You (2016)
The Book: Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin bring Jojo Moyes’ controversial bestseller to life with undeniable charm. Clarke’s Bumblebee tights and infectious smile provide the light to Claflin’s dark and cynical Will Traynor. It is a polarizing story for some, but as a romantic drama, it hits every emotional note it aims for.
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